When the Soviet Union dissolved in 1991, a large number of aircraft were left on Ukrainian territory. Ever since, the Ukrainian air force has been downsizing and upgrading its forces. In spite of these efforts, the main inventory of the air force consists of Soviet-made aircraft. In the mid-1990s, this striking splinter scheme was adopted as standard for all Ukrainian Flankers. Ukraine currently operates 60-70 Flankers.

Please note: An optional display stand is available separately if you wish to display this model "in-flight".

Designed by the Soviet Union to challenge the superiority of fourth generation US fighters such as the F-15 Eagle, the Su-27 was first flown on May 20, 1977. This one seat Mach-2 fighter had the Soviet Union's first operational fly-by-wire system. The aircraft is very large compared to the MiG-29, its closest Soviet counterpart, but it is built with a high percentage of titanium, which helps minimize its weight. It is exceptionally agile and is perhaps most famous for its "Cobra" maneuver, which is a short, sustained level flight at a 120 degree angle of attack, often performed at air shows.

JC's 1:72 scale Su-27 is a large, heavy model made primarily of diecast metal, with plastic used only in those areas requiring the finest detail. Subtle panel lines and rivet details cover the surface of the model, and are even present on the underside. Moving parts include an opening hinged canopy, deployable speed brake with metal actuator support arm and movable rudders. The highly-detailed landing gear has separately-applied transparent landing lights, and structural and hydraulic line details are visible inside the wheel wells. Other fine details can be seen inside the engine intake, on the simulated heat shielding and on the arrestor hook.